Why Do I Experience Nausea When Hungry?

Causes and Symptoms of Hunger, Nausea, and Early Pregnancy

Hunger and nausea are typically attributed to excessive secretion of gastric acid. For women undergoing pregnancy preparation, experiencing hunger and nausea may signal the onset of pregnancy. Excessive gastric acid secretion can persistently evoke feelings of hunger and irritate the gastric mucosa, leading to erosion, inflammation, and consequently, nausea and vomiting. In traditional Chinese medicine, such conditions are often attributed to insufficient stomach yin and hyperactivity of yin deficiency fire. The latter can disrupt stomach harmony and cause upward counterflow of stomach qi, resulting in nausea and vomiting.

1. Causes of Nausea After Hunger During Early Pregnancy

Nausea during pregnancy is a natural physiological response, with symptoms typically peaking in the first trimester and gradually ameliorating thereafter. Known as morning sickness, nausea or picky eating is common during early pregnancy. As the body adjusts to these changes, eating acidic foods such as hawthorn slices can offer relief from nausea.

2. Symptoms of Early Pregnancy

The most prevalent symptoms of early pregnancy include nausea and vomiting, especially in the morning, affecting nearly all pregnant women. These symptoms can vary in intensity from individual to individual. Additional symptoms may include breast tenderness, swelling, and itching, accompanied by darkening of the areola, prominent veins under the breast skin, and nipple protrusion. Skin changes like pigmentation or the appearance of stretch marks on the abdominal wall, particularly in later pregnancy stages, are also common. Pregnant women may also experience increased fatigue and sleepiness during early pregnancy.